The Secretary of State serves as the Commonwealth's chief advocate for civic engagement. Secretary Grimes has been a leader in an initiative to study to the general civic trends in the Commonwealth. Most recently, her office and partners released the 2016 Civic Health Index showing that while Kentuckians are advancing in areas like volunteerism and charitable giving, they are less trusting of public institutions and their neighbors. showing that while Kentuckians are advancing in areas like volunteerism and charitable giving, they are less trusting of public institutions and their neighbors.
The Secretary of State's programs particularly target Kentucky's youth. Initiatives like the Essay and Slogan Contests, Mock Election Program and Commonwealth's Ambassador certificate cultivate and reward behaviors that lead to greater participation in our communities and state. Other programs, like the Civic Health Initiative and Outstanding Civic Educator Award, encourage the pursuit of innovative methods for bringing out the best in our Commonwealth. Our office also looks to advance civic curriculum through technology and promoting connectivity throughout all Kentucky schools.
Kentucky is at its best when everyone is engaged. Whether you have the opportunity to participate in the Secretary of State's programs or are active in other ways, we hope you will help the Secretary of State strive to make sure Kentucky's brightest days are ahead.